HOW TO PREP A ROOF FOR SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATIONS

Having solar panels installed on your roof is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to seek out clean energy for your home, especially for Florida homeowners. Even if you have the most advanced solar panel technology installed, you can be in for serious problems if the condition of your roof is not taken into account. Before you cost yourself money and headaches, make sure that your roof is in the best condition possible to have the panels installed.

1. Get a Roof Inspection.

This step is crucial to make sure that there are not any pre-existing problems with your roof. Even if you may not be able to spot a leak from inside your house, there could be other damage to your roof that you may not know about.

Solar panels are a long-term commitment, and you want to make sure your roof is in the best shape possible before installation. Any elements of wear or tear can advance quickly under the weight of solar panels and lead to long term problems with sagging, dry rot, and a host of other issues. An experienced roofing contractor can inspect your roofand let you know whether it’s ready to install solar panels.

2. Consider Upgrading Your Roof.

If you install new solar panels on an old roof, you could be in for a disaster. If you have reliable solar panels installed, you can expect them to last around 20 years before they need replacing. If you have less than that amount of life left in your current roof, then you might find yourself paying extra down the line to have your roof upgraded and the solar panels removed.

Save money in the long run by matching up the life of your roof with the life of your solar panels. If you’re unsure of the age of your roof, consult with a roofing professional to help pinpoint the age based on roofing materials and how long you’ve lived in the home.

3. Check Out Your Contractor.

If you do not hire an experienced contractor for your solar panel installation, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise. Your roof needs to be treated with care during the installation process so that you do not end up with unexpected damage. A responsible contractor will exercise caution while installing the panels on your roof and will know how to avoid damaging it in the process.

4. Be Prepared for the Cost of Maintenance.

When you make plans to have solar panels installed, you should anticipate having to get inspections and general maintenance done regularly. If you let pools of water or debris accumulate under the solar panels, you could be inhibiting your energy efficiency and wearing down your roof faster than it should be deteriorating. To protect your investment in solar panels, factor routine maintenance of your roof and panels into your budget in advance.

With a little advance planning, you can enjoy the benefits of solar panel technology for years to come. Ready to get started? Contact Handyman Roofing for a roof inspection and start prepping your roof today.